Fondue with White Wine and Garlic

Name: Fondue with White Wine and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper; Bread cubes or vegetable sticks for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue with white wine and garlic for special gatherings or cozy nights in. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavors creates an indulgent experience that everyone enjoys. It's surprisingly easy to whip up, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s bubbling is simply irresistible. I often pair it with fresh-baked bread and crunchy vegetables, making it a hit among family and friends. Trust me, once you try this delightful recipe, you’ll want to share it at every opportunity!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:43:15.624Z

When I first attempted to make fondue, I was amazed at how simple it really was. Using high-quality cheese and a touch of white wine made all the difference in taste. I found that incorporating a bit of minced garlic enhances the flavor without overpowering the classic cheese profile. This combination creates a fondue that's deliciously savory.

Another important tip I've discovered is to ensure that the cheese is grated finely and mixed with cornstarch before melting. This technique helps to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Serve fresh vegetables and crusty bread alongside, and you have a memorable dish perfect for sharing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that pairs beautifully with crusty bread
Rich flavor from white wine and garlic infusion
Perfect for creating a warm, interactive dining experience

      

Understanding Cheese Choices

Selecting the right cheese is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture in your fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are traditional choices, each contributing a unique flavor profile; Gruyère offers a slightly nutty taste, while Emmental adds sweetness. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using aged Gouda or a mild cheddar, but remember that this may alter the final flavor of your fondue. Always choose high-quality cheese for the best melting results.

Additionally, grating the cheese ensures even melting and helps avoid clumping, which can occur if the cheese is added in larger chunks. When mixing with cornstarch, make sure to coat every cheese piece well—it acts as a stabilizer, helping to maintain a smooth consistency and preventing separation once heated.

Perfecting the Technique

The preparation of the fondue pot sets the tone for the dish’s flavor. Rubbing the pot with garlic is a traditional technique that infuses an aromatic essence into the cheese mixture as it melts. It’s essential to use just enough heat; medium heat is ideal to warm the wine slowly without boiling it, which can lead to a harsh taste. Look for tiny bubbles forming around the edges rather than a rolling boil; this indicates it's on the right path.

As you add in the cheese mixture, do so gradually while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or a whisk. This technique helps to achieve a glossy, cohesive blend, rather than a gritty texture. If you find your fondue too thick, add a splash of white wine to loosen it up or, conversely, if it appears too thin, let it simmer a bit longer while continuing to stir.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 garlic clove, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper
Bread cubes or vegetable sticks for dipping

Make sure to keep everything ready so you can focus on enjoying your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect fondue experience.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove for added flavor.

Combine Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the grated cheeses with cornstarch. This will help prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the hot wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Serve

Once the fondue is creamy, serve it hot with bread cubes and vegetable sticks for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue experience with friends or family!

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of nutmeg to elevate the flavor of your fondue.

Serving and Dipping Ideas

When serving fondue, presentation can enhance the experience; consider using a wooden board filled with dipping options. Fresh-baked bread cubes are a classic choice, but don’t overlook vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips, which add a refreshing crunch. You could also try marinated mushrooms or even cured meats for a savory twist. Toasting bread lightly before serving will give it extra texture and flavor, which many find delightful.

For an interactive dining experience, encourage guests to assemble their own dipper combinations. I love finding new ratios of bread-to-vegetable, which can change the flavor profile of each bite. This engagement not only elevates the meal but sparks conversation, making fondue the perfect centerpiece for any gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover fondue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, remember that the cheese can easily separate, so use a gentle approach. Place it in a pot over very low heat, adding a splash of wine or a bit of cream to help regain its smooth texture while stirring continuously to avoid scorching. Microwave reheating is possible, but use short intervals at half power, stirring in between to maintain an even heat.

For those thinking ahead, fondue can be made in larger batches. It’s a wonderful dish for parties or gatherings, so feel free to double the recipe. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly, so watch the cheese thoroughly as it melts, ensuring it doesn’t overheat and lose that lovely texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheese varieties, like Fontina or a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

Besides bread, you can dip a variety of foods such as steamed vegetables, apples, or even cooked sausage for a hearty treat.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Just ensure to use gluten-free bread or veggies for dipping.